TOFD (Ultrasonic – Time of Flight Diffraction)

This TOFD welds course provides detailed information on the inspection of ferritic steel welds by the ultrasonic time of flight method. Suitable for personnel with existing UT Certification in welds, and recognised by PCN, providing excellent preparation for the Level 1 and 2 examinations. It meets the full training hour requirements as specified by the relevant PCN documentation. (Note: Level 1 requires a minimum of 40 hours’ training. Direct entry to Level 2 requires a minimum of 80 hours). The course utilises the latest Technology Design and Olympus TOFD equipment.

• Ultrasonic theory
• Theory of diffracted ultrasonic waves
• Digitisation principles
• Hardware utilised in TOFD
• Calibration/setting up of equipment
• Extensive practical element
• Analysis software
• Analysis and interpretation
• Reporting
• Relevant standards/PCN documentation

An individual certified to Ultrasonic TOFD Level 2 has demonstrated competence to perform NDT according to NDT procedures. Within the scope of the competence defined on the certificate, Level 2 personnel may be authorised by the employer to:

• Select the Ultrasonic TOFD technique for the test method to be used
• Define the limitations of application of the testing method
• Translate Ultrasonic TOFD codes, standards, specifications and procedures into Ultrasonic TOFD instructions adapted to the actual working conditions
• Set up and verify Ultrasonic TOFD equipment settings
• Perform and supervise Ultrasonic TOFD tests
• Interpret and evaluate results according to applicable standards, codes, specifications or procedures
• Prepare written Ultrasonic TOFD instructions
• Carry out and supervise all tasks at or below Level 2
• Provide guidance for personnel at or below Level 2
• Report the results of Ultrasonic TOFD tests.

Full PCN certification is only achieved once the required experience is acquired following the completion of the required training hours and passing of the examination:

Ultrasonic Time of Flight Diffraction
• Level 2 – 80 training hours and 12 months experience

This is a guidance course aimed at the PCN requirements for Ultrasonic TOFD Practitioner Level 3 in welds. The main objective is to make candidates fully aware of the scope of the examination and level of knowledge required (This will also enable candidates to identify their weak subject areas). Advice will be given on any further tuition required. Candidates should hold a PCN Level 2 in TOFD, a PCN Level 3 approval in Ultrasonic Testing as a minimum and have at least 2 years experience in NDT Inspection before attempting these courses.

• PCN requirements for Level 3 approval
• Complementary NDT methods
• Advanced product technology
• Quality assurance, quality control and supervision
• Specifications, procedures and techniques
• Analysis of reports
• Advanced ultrasonic testing theory and revision
• Analysis of procedures
• Procedure writing
• Mock examinations

An individual certified to Ultrasonic TOFD Level 3 has demonstrated competence to perform and direct Ultrasonic Testing operators for which he is certified. Ultrasonic TOFD Level 3 personnel have demonstrated:

• The competence to evaluate and interpret results in terms of existing standards, codes, and specifications
• Sufficient practical knowledge of applicable materials, fabrication, process, and product technology to select Ultrasonic TOFD methods, establish Ultrasonic TOFD techniques and assist in establishing acceptance criteria where non are otherwise available
• A general familiarity with other NDT methods

Within the scope of the competence defined on the certificate, Ultrasonic TOFD Level 3 personnel may be authorised to:

• Assume full responsibility for the test facility or examination centre and staff
• Establish, review for editorial and technical correctness and validate Ultrasonic Testing instructions and procedures
• Interpret codes, standards, specifications and procedures
• Designate the particular Ultrasonic TOFD test methods, techniques and procedures to be used
• Within the scope and limitations of any certification held, carry out all tasks at all levels
• Provide guidance for Ultrasonic TOFD personnel at all levels

Level 3 certified personnel may be authorised to carry out, manage and supervise PCN qualification examinations on behalf of the British Institute of NDT (BINDT).

Where Level 3 duties require the individual to apply routine NDT by a method or methods within a particular product or industry sector, BINDT strongly recommends that the industry demand that this person should hold and maintain Level 2 certification in the applicable method(s) and sector(s).

The range and scope of PCN certification available at each level is defined in the relevant appendix to these general requirements.